If you’re craving a bold, creamy, and comforting pasta dish, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is exactly what you need. Combining tender, juicy chicken with a rich Parmesan-infused sauce, this dish delivers the perfect balance of spice and creaminess. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe brings incredible depth of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this Cajun pasta recipe is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Bold & Flavorful: Cajun seasoning adds the perfect kick of spice.
- Creamy & Comforting: Heavy cream and Parmesan create a luscious sauce.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add extra veggies for variety.
- Restaurant-Quality: A gourmet dish that tastes like it’s from your favorite bistro.
- Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers taste even better the next day!
Ingredients
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 to 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided (adjust to taste)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2/3 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped (for serving)
Equipment Used
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs
Directions & Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and flatten them to an even thickness using a rolling pin or meat mallet. Season both sides with 1 1/2 tbsp of Cajun seasoning.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from the skillet, let rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
4. Prepare the Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy whipping cream and add the remaining Cajun seasoning. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the cheese is melted.
6. Combine Everything
Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and add the cooked linguine pasta. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency.
7. Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
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Nutritional Information
- Calories: ~600 kcal
- Protein: ~40g
- Carbohydrates: ~50g
- Fat: ~30g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Calcium: ~20% DV
Prep Time and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Use a Different Pasta: Try penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti instead of linguine.
- Make it Lighter: Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use less Parmesan.
- Add More Veggies: Include bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the Cajun seasoning or add crushed red pepper flakes.
- Protein Swap: Try shrimp or sausage instead of chicken for a seafood or Cajun-style twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?
Absolutely! However, some brands are saltier than others, so adjust the amount to taste.
Is this dish gluten-free?
No, but you can substitute gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.
Can I freeze this pasta?
Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, but you can freeze the cooked chicken separately and prepare the sauce fresh when reheating.
Pro Tips By Elisa
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: It should be juicy and tender, not dry.
- Save Pasta Water: This helps adjust the sauce consistency.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: It melts better and adds richer flavor.
- Rest the Chicken: Letting it sit before slicing keeps it moist.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: It will absorb some sauce, so avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread for extra indulgence.
- Pair with a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a restaurant-style experience.
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs
Ingredients Â
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 to 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning divided (adjust to taste)
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2/3 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp parsley finely chopped (for serving)
InstructionsÂ
- Prepare the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and flatten them to an even thickness using a rolling pin or meat mallet. Season both sides with 1 1/2 tbsp of Cajun seasoning.
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat 2 tsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from the skillet, let rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
- Prepare the Sauce
- Using the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the heavy whipping cream and add the remaining Cajun seasoning. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the cheese is melted.
- Combine Everything
- Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and add the cooked linguine pasta. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency.
- Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!